Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 16: In a boost to India’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, vice-captain and star opener Smriti Mandhana has regained the top spot in the ICC Women’s ODI batting rankings. Her fluent 58 off 63 balls against Australia in the first ODI on Sunday helped her leapfrog England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, who now trails Mandhana by four rating points.
The match, held at New Chandigarh, saw India post a competitive 281-run total, powered by strong performances from the top order. Mandhana’s opening partner, Pratika Rawal, impressed with a half-century, moving up four spots to 42nd in the latest rankings. Harleen Deol, who added 54 runs, also saw a rise, climbing to the 43rd position.
However, the batting feats were not enough to secure a win, as Australia chased down the target comfortably with eight wickets in hand, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Australian Batters Make Big Gains
Australia’s top order fired in unison, with Phoebe Litchfield stealing the show with an 88-run knock off 80 balls, emerging as the top scorer of the match. Her effort helped her jump 13 spots to joint 25th in the ODI rankings.
Beth Mooney, who played a steady 77 off 74 balls*, climbed from eighth to fifth, while Annabel Sutherland, contributing an unbeaten 54, also rose four spots, now sharing the 25th rank with Litchfield.
The Australian run chase was anchored by a calm and clinical approach from their top order. Despite India’s solid batting display, the bowling unit failed to contain the Australian batters, allowing the visitors to cruise to victory.
Road to the Women’s World Cup 2025
Mandhana’s return to the top of the rankings is a timely morale booster for India, as they continue to fine-tune their squad ahead of the 13th edition of the ICC Women’s World Cup, scheduled for early 2025.
With several Indian players showing form with the bat and others pushing up the rankings, the focus now shifts to improving bowling execution — a key area to address if India hopes to challenge heavyweights like Australia in the upcoming tournament.
The second ODI will be crucial for India to level the series and gain momentum before the World Cup countdown intensifies.